For me, I guess it really depends on what kind of camping gear are you going to buy. If it is something really essential, like tents, sleeping bags, I don't really mind having to pay quite a lot, especially if I can get to use it for a very long time and the reviews that I get from these items are really good.

You might try your search window for websites as: REI, Eureka, Sears online and stores like WalMart, Target and KMart to get some ideas of prices. It all depends on the size of tents needed as a tip is to always add an extra person to the size needed for storage or to accomodate a pet, length and types (canvas, nylon) of sleeping bags, size of coolers, stoves and lanterns (propane, gas or LED) and the same with air mattresses. I hope this is of some help. My camping experience began at age two with my first trip to Yosemite in October of 1954.